Fashion Influence – An Endless Cycle
For those who have been following Clutch22 the past few months, these new leggings from American Apparel might look a little familiar. They are strikingly similar to a pair of DIY slashed leggings I posted last November (click here to view post). While I’m not claiming AA tried to cramp my style, it’s not a complete coincidence. Among other style bloggers, I was inspired by Fashion Toast, who was inspired by a photo The Sartoliast featured from Balmain’s Fall 08 pre-show. Ultimately, this is a testament to how the fashion blogosphere has helped influence ”cutting-edge” trends.
The difference between my version and American Apparel’s? They are charging $32 while the DIY pair only costs $12 (via Target) and less than five minutes with a pair of scissors. Though I’m huge fan of AA, the $20 saved could be used toward a new tee. 
Here are a few ways I’ve styled them:
Layering a pair of textured or colored tights underneath adds character to an outfit.
I LOVE the way you’ve styled them–especially with the tights underneath. It really creates a great visual look…
Oooh, I really like them with the textured tights underneath!
Ashe – Thanks so much, it helps keep you a little more warm too!
Jackie – Thanks doll! I love playing with monochramatic textures!
Ha! I totally remember you cutting those way back when! Also, I’m so glad you have done two posts since I last checked. Work is killing me today and this is just the break I needed while still appearing as if I am working! Sneaky sneaky
I sent you a couple emails re: winning the prize. I haven’t heard back, just wanted to be sure they didn’t go to your junk bin.
I asked you to send regualr mail, if that’s okay and to let me know the cost and how to pay you. 
Thanks so much and no rush.
Eyeliah – Weird, I was waiting to hear back from you. I’ll try to find them, but if I don’t I’ll just do reg. mail to the updated address you send! If it’s only $7, no need to pay.
I remember when you did this too, because I totally loved the look. What a compliment to you my dear, we both know they totally got the idea from your blog
KOS did a post about some store knocking off her DIY recently. Seems to be happening.
Alix – Ha, I doubt it was me, but I’m not surprised at all. In fact, I bet we’ll see more and more of this. Another example is the Maison Martin Margiela sandal booties DIY…though I was inspired by MMM, look at how LONG it took for someone to come out with a good knock-off (Aldo)…almost a year!
Shay – Thanks for letting me know. I left KOS a comment…I’m glad others are noticing!
I love the idea! Maybe I’ll try it myself!
Love them layered with the other tights.
Those are hot – I love the first look!
Prefer yours anyway! I love people like you who aim to inspire. Lots more of the same please.
Love your blog, make sure you stop by on mine please!
http://www.tigertem.com
Yeah, no worresd I figured I was sent to a junk bin, lol. That’s why I wrote here too. Pleae email me details if I need to send you some dollars.
How do yours hold up when you wash them? I’m assuming you hand wash. That’d be my only concern with shredded tights or leggings D.I.Y. Yours are hot though! I really need to start posting more looks on my blog. I don’t get as done up (in a good way!) on a daily basis as you do.
those torn leggings are HAWT
I love your DIY! I love the look with the res skirt! Hot and fun. Love it!